A journey of survival against all odds

This is Michael again, writing to keep you updated on Stephanie. As she mentioned in her last post, her pain has greatly increased over the last week. She’s also had more frequent spells of confusion where it’s been hard for her to process conversation and respond, even to simple questions like how she’s feeling and where she’s going. We went to the ER yesterday when the pain still wasn’t under control. Her neuro oncologist ordered another spinal tap to test the pressure of her spinal fluid, and it came back ridiculously high. They removed some spinal fluid to reduce the pressure, but knew that was only temporary because her body would regenerate it.

So in the middle of the night slash early this morning, they transferred Stephanie via ambulance to where her neuro oncologist is. Along the drive, the ambulance diverted into another ER because Stephanie was struggling with the travel. However, this afternoon we finally arrived. Her doctors took out more spinal fluid to try to ease the pressure again before having another surgery. This time they gave her an EVD (external ventricular drain), which basically is an open drain to her spinal fluid through the brain where they can manage and dictate the pressure they want. This is a temporary device as it’s on top of the skin and prone to infection. However, if the reduced pressure eases any of her pain and helps with the confusion, then they’ll do another surgery in a couple days to implant a shunt, which is a more permanent way of draining spinal fluid to control over pressurization.

I will post again in a few days, or hopefully Stephanie will be feeling up to it and can, to keep you posted on how she reacts to this procedure. We truly appreciate all of your prayers, and ask you to continue to pray for us as we face this difficult time.

Oh, Michael – my heart is breaking for all of you. I am in tears. I don’t even know you. I am SO sorry that Stephanie, you and your little girl are having to go through this and I care very, very much and am very upset that Stephanie is having so much pain now. Please know that I am thinking of all of you and praying for all of you really often. Thank you for the update.

My heart is hurting for all of you and tears flow as I read this update. My prayers are with each of you and especially for Stephanie for relief of this pain and healing from this cancer. God bless each of you and may your faith and love for God and each other continue to grow. You guys have allowed us to see this beautiful love and faith blossom by your sharing with each of us. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your families journey.

Stephanie you’re such a testimony of faith and love. I want you to know you and your family are remembered in our family rosary. We love you and haven’t met you but we share a Heavenly Father.
From SoCal. Much love and prayers 💞 Angie

Michael, I have not met you, but you and Stephanie are two of the most inspiring people on the planet. I am continually amazed by the strength and faith you both display. Her posts have told your story in a rare, candid and uplifting manner. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you…

Michael, thank you so much for your update. I knew I had not seen anything just recently. Prayer has continued steadily for Stephanie, for you and Sarah, for all of your extended families and personal friends. You are an aMAZing family. I’m so glad that Stephanie … even in her pain … allows that whatever happens, and whenever, is in God’s Hands. She is His child, and He will see you all through this. I’m a stranger to the family, but love you all.

God bless you for taking the time to update in the midst of the trials that you’re enduring. I can’t imagine the pain that Stephanie is having to face. I will continue to offer up my sufferings/difficulties for your family. St. Raphael, come quickly!💚💚💚
P.S. Your family picture is a testimony to the grace of your faith. The smiles in the storm speak it beautifully.

My prayers join all the others for your precious family. May all of these procedures accomplish what they are intended for and may Stephanie’s pain disappear. Thank you for keeping us all involved in the journey.

You are all in our prayers! It breaks my heart to
Here all that you have been through. Stay
Strong! Thank you for the update.
Here is a word of encouragement:
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.
Do not be dismayed, for I am God
I will strengthen, I will help you. I
Will uphold you with my victorious
Right hand.
Isaiah 41:10

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